Scannell case granted new venue

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Grand Marais, MN (NNCNOW.com) ---- Cook County Attorney Tim Scannell was back in the courtroom Tuesday morning for his first appearance since being indicted by a grand jury on two counts of criminal sexual conduct.

Scannell's attorney, Jim Tamburino out of Minneapolis, and Special Prosecutor Tom Heffelfinger agreed that due to the high-profile nature of the case and the strong opinions in Cook County, that a change of venue was necessary.

Honorable Judge Shaun Floerke granted the request and the case will now be heard in Duluth.

Judge Floerke will also continue to be the judge residing over the case. Scannell's attorney initially issued a motion asking that all 6th Judicial District Judge's be removed from the case since they have worked with Scannell in the past.

Floerke denied that motion. On top of that, Floerke also denied a motion to have the indictment dismissed.

Scannell has been on medical leave from his job as Cook County Attorney since mid-October.